When you think about influential voices in American politics today, Bakari Sellers stands out as someone who has mastered the art of building wealth while staying true to his values. His journey from being the youngest African-American legislator in South Carolina to becoming a nationally recognized CNN political commentator is nothing short of remarkable.
Bakari Sellers net worth in 2026 is estimated between $5 million and $6 million, a figure that reflects his strategic career diversification and relentless work ethic. Unlike many political figures who rely solely on government salaries or media contracts, Sellers has built multiple income streams that work together to create lasting financial security.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every aspect of Bakari Sellers’ financial success, career journey, personal life, and the strategies he used to build his impressive wealth. Whether you’re curious about his CNN analyst salary, his attorney income, or how his books contribute to his overall earnings, we’ve got you covered.
Table of Contents
Quick Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bakari T. Sellers |
| Date of Birth | September 18, 1984 |
| Age (2026) | 41 years old |
| Birthplace | Bamberg County, South Carolina, USA |
| Current Residence | Columbia, South Carolina |
| Net Worth (2026) | $5-6 Million |
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 88 kg (194 lbs) |
| Education | B.A. African-American Studies (Morehouse College, 2005)<br>J.D. (University of South Carolina School of Law, 2008) |
| Occupation | Attorney, CNN Political Analyst, Author |
| Employer | Strom Law Firm, LLC / CNN |
| Spouse | Dr. Ellen Rucker Sellers (married 2015) |
| Children | Twins – Sadie Sellers and Stokely Sellers (born 2019) |
| Father | Cleveland Sellers (Civil Rights Activist) |
| Political Party | Democratic Party |
| Years in Office | 2006-2014 (South Carolina House District 90) |
| Books Published | “My Vanishing Country” (2020)<br>”The Moment” (2024) |
| Notable Recognition | TIME Magazine 40 Under 40 (2010)<br>Forbes Best-in-State Lawyer (2025) |
Who Is Bakari Sellers?
Early Life and Civil Rights Legacy
Born on September 18, 1984, in Bamberg County, South Carolina, Bakari Sellers grew up surrounded by the spirit of activism and social justice. His father, Cleveland Sellers, was a prominent civil rights activist who participated in some of the most important protests of the 1960s. Cleveland Sellers was even present during the Orangeburg Massacre in 1968, an event that deeply shaped the Sellers family’s commitment to equality.
This civil rights legacy wasn’t just something Bakari learned about in history books—it was lived reality in his household. Growing up in Denmark, South Carolina, a small rural town, he witnessed firsthand the challenges facing Black communities in the South. These early experiences would later fuel his passion for public service and social justice advocacy.
The influence of his father cannot be overstated. Cleveland Sellers instilled in young Bakari the importance of education, perseverance, and fighting for what’s right, even when the odds seem impossible. This foundation would prove invaluable as Bakari embarked on his own remarkable career trajectory.
Education
Bakari Sellers’ educational journey reflects his commitment to excellence and his desire to create meaningful change. He attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, one of the nation’s most prestigious historically Black colleges. At Morehouse, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in African-American Studies in 2005.
Morehouse College has a legendary reputation for producing Black leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Spike Lee, and Samuel L. Jackson. Being part of this tradition shaped Sellers’ worldview and connected him to a network of accomplished alumni who would later support his career.
After completing his undergraduate degree, Sellers enrolled at the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree in 2008. His legal education provided him with the analytical skills and constitutional knowledge that would serve him throughout his political career and current work as an attorney.
What’s particularly impressive is that Bakari Sellers began his political career while still in law school, demonstrating an extraordinary ability to balance multiple demanding commitments—a skill that continues to define his professional life today.
Bakari Sellers Political Career
Becoming the Youngest African-American Legislator
In 2006, at just 22 years old, Bakari Sellers won election to the South Carolina House of Representatives, representing District 90. This achievement made him one of the youngest African-American elected officials in the entire United States. It’s worth noting that he accomplished this while simultaneously attending law school—a testament to his determination and work ethic.
Serving from 2006 to 2014, Bakari Sellers’ political career focused on issues affecting working-class families, education reform, and healthcare access. He quickly gained a reputation as a thoughtful legislator who could work across party lines while never compromising his core values.
During his tenure as a South Carolina legislator, he championed several important initiatives:
- Education funding improvements for rural and underserved school districts
- Healthcare expansion efforts to provide coverage for more South Carolinians
- Economic development programs targeting rural communities
- Criminal justice reform measures to address systemic inequalities
His work earned him recognition beyond South Carolina’s borders. In 2010, TIME Magazine named him to their prestigious “40 Under 40” list, recognizing him as one of the most influential young leaders in America.
The 2014 Lieutenant Governor Campaign
In 2014, Bakari Sellers made the bold decision to run for Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina. Though he didn’t win the race, the campaign significantly elevated his public profile. The Lieutenant Governor campaign 2014 brought him national media attention and opened doors that would later prove invaluable to his career.
Running statewide in South Carolina, a conservative-leaning state, required Bakari Sellers to expand his message and reach voters across diverse demographics. The experience taught him valuable lessons about communication, messaging, and the complexities of modern political campaigns.
While the loss was disappointing, it proved to be a pivot point rather than an ending. The visibility he gained during the campaign positioned him perfectly for his transition into national media and legal practice.
Bakari Sellers Legal Career
After his political career, Bakari Sellers joined Strom Law Firm, LLC in Columbia, South Carolina, where he practices as an attorney specializing in civil rights cases, corporate law, and personal injury litigation. His legal practice income forms one of the foundational pillars of his overall net worth.
As a civil rights lawyer, Bakari Sellers handles cases involving:
- Discrimination lawsuits (employment, housing, education)
- Police misconduct and excessive force cases
- Voting rights violations
- Constitutional rights challenges
- Corporate liability cases
His background as a former legislator gives him unique insights into the law that most attorneys don’t possess. He understands how laws are written, the political considerations behind them, and the legislative intent—knowledge that proves invaluable in court.
Forbes Best-in-State Lawyer Recognition
In 2025, Bakari Sellers received recognition as a Forbes Best-in-State Lawyer, an honor that solidified his reputation in the legal community. This designation is awarded based on peer reviews, client feedback, and professional accomplishments. It’s not just a prestige marker—it directly impacts his ability to attract high-value clients and command premium attorney income.
Lawyers with this level of recognition typically charge significantly higher hourly rates and retainer fees. While Sellers’ exact billing rates aren’t public, attorneys with his credentials and recognition often charge $400-$600 per hour or more for their services.
His legal career provides consistent, substantial income that gives him financial stability independent of his media work. This diversification is a key factor in understanding how he built and maintains his net worth.
CNN Political Commentator
Breaking Into National Television
Bakari Sellers joined CNN as a political analyst and commentator, bringing a fresh, authentic voice to political discourse. His transition from South Carolina politics to national media was seamless, thanks to the name recognition he built during his Lieutenant Governor campaign.
As a CNN political commentator, Bakari Sellers appears regularly on shows like:
- CNN Tonight
- Anderson Cooper 360
- The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer
- New Day
- State of the Union
His commentary focuses on American politics, race relations, social justice, voting rights, and Southern political dynamics. What sets him apart from other analysts is his ability to speak from lived experience as both a legislator and a Black man navigating American society.
What Does a CNN Analyst Earn?
While specific CNN analyst contract details remain confidential, industry standards provide reasonable estimates. Political commentators at Sellers’ level typically earn between $200,000 and $500,000 annually from their media work, depending on their contract structure and appearance frequency.
Some analysts work on exclusive contracts, while others are paid per appearance. Sellers’ high visibility and frequent appearances suggest a substantial CNN analyst salary that forms a significant portion of his annual income.
The media commentary earnings go beyond just salary, though. Television exposure increases his value for:
- Speaking engagements (which command higher fees)
- Book deals (publishers pay more for recognizable authors)
- Legal clients (name recognition brings more business)
- Consulting opportunities (companies want his political insights)
This multiplier effect makes his CNN role even more valuable than the direct compensation alone.
Bakari Sellers as an Author
In 2020, Bakari Sellers published his memoir “My Vanishing Country: A Memoir,” which became a bestseller and critical success. The book explores his personal journey growing up in rural South Carolina, his father’s civil rights activism, and the challenges facing the Black working class in America today.
“My Vanishing Country” received widespread acclaim for its honest, nuanced portrayal of race, class, and politics in modern America. The book resonated with readers across the political spectrum and established Sellers as a serious author and thought leader.
Book royalties from “My Vanishing Country” contribute meaningfully to Bakari Sellers net worth. While specific sales figures aren’t publicly available, bestselling political memoirs typically sell between 50,000 and 200,000 copies in their first year. With hardcover royalties ranging from $3-$5 per book and ongoing paperback and ebook sales, this represents substantial income.
“The Moment”
In 2024, Sellers released his second book, “The Moment,” further cementing his reputation as an influential author. This follow-up book addresses current political and social issues, offering both analysis and solutions for moving forward.
The success of “The Moment” demonstrates that “My Vanishing Country” wasn’t a one-time accomplishment but rather the beginning of a sustained literary career. Publishers typically offer larger advances for second books when the first performs well, meaning Sellers likely received a significant upfront payment.
Book royalties provide passive income that continues flowing long after publication. Both books will generate revenue for years to come through various formats (hardcover, paperback, ebook, audiobook) and potentially foreign translations.
Public Speaking Engagements: A Lucrative Income StreamCommanding Premium Speaking Fees
Bakari Sellers is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, addressing audiences at universities, corporate events, political conventions, and nonprofit organizations. Public speaking fees represent one of his most lucrative income sources.
Based on industry standards and his level of recognition, Bakari Sellers’ speaking fees typically range:
- In-person keynote speeches: $30,000 – $50,000 per event
- Virtual speaking engagements: $10,000 – $20,000 per event
- Panel discussions: $15,000 – $25,000 per appearance
- University lectures: $15,000 – $30,000 per event
These aren’t one-time occurrences. Popular speakers like Sellers often deliver 20-40 paid speeches per year. Even at the conservative end of the spectrum, this could generate $400,000 to $800,000 annually from speaking alone.
Topics and Themes
Bakari Sellers speaks on a range of topics that draw from his diverse experiences:
- Leadership and overcoming adversity
- Race relations in modern America
- The future of the Democratic Party
- Lessons from the civil rights movement
- Building coalitions across differences
- Law, justice, and equality
- Political communication strategies
Corporate clients particularly value his insights on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as well as his ability to discuss political trends without alienating different viewpoints.
Bakari Sellers Net Worth Breakdown
Comprehensive Income Analysis
Understanding Bakari Sellers net worth requires looking at all his income sources and how they work together. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Income Source | Estimated Annual Income | % of Total Net Worth | Estimated Total Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Practice (Strom Law Firm) | $250,000 – $400,000 | 25% | $1.25M – $1.5M |
| CNN Political Commentary | $200,000 – $500,000 | 25% | $1.25M – $1.5M |
| Book Royalties | $100,000 – $200,000 | 15% | $750K – $900K |
| Speaking Engagements | $300,000 – $600,000 | 20% | $1M – $1.2M |
| Consulting Work | $50,000 – $150,000 | 5% | $250K – $300K |
| Investments & Real Estate | Variable appreciation | 10% | $500K – $750K |
| Other Assets | N/A | 5% | $250K – $300K |
| TOTAL NET WORTH | Annual: $900K – $2M | 100% | $5M – $6M |
This breakdown shows that Bakari Sellers has successfully diversified his income, ensuring he isn’t dependent on any single source. This strategy provides financial security and allows him to pursue projects based on impact rather than pure financial necessity.
Asset Portfolio and Investments
While specific details about Bakari Sellers’ investment portfolio remain private, high-earning professionals in his demographic typically invest in:
- Real estate holdings (primary residence in Columbia, SC, possibly rental properties)
- Stock market investments (index funds, blue-chip stocks)
- Retirement accounts (401k, IRAs)
- Business ventures (potential ownership stakes in media or legal ventures)
- Education funds for his children
His conservative public persona suggests he likely takes a measured approach to investing, prioritizing wealth preservation and steady growth over high-risk speculation.
Bakari Sellers Net Worth Compared
Comparison with Other Political Commentators
To understand where Bakari Sellers net worth stands in the industry, let’s compare him with other prominent CNN political analysts and commentators:
| Political Commentator | Estimated Net Worth (2026) | Primary Income Sources | Years in Media |
|---|---|---|---|
| Don Lemon | $12 – $15 Million | CNN anchor, speaking, books | 15+ years |
| Van Jones | $10 – $12 Million | CNN, production company, advocacy | 10+ years |
| Bakari Sellers | $5 – $6 Million | Law, CNN, books, speaking | 8+ years |
| Ana Navarro | $4 – $5 Million | CNN, political consulting | 8+ years |
| Abby Phillip | $3 – $4 Million | CNN anchor, journalism | 6+ years |
While Bakari Sellers’ net worth is lower than veteran anchors like Don Lemon, his trajectory is impressive considering his relatively shorter time in national media. More importantly, his diversified portfolio gives him unique advantages:
- Multiple revenue streams reduce career risk
- Legal practice provides stable base income
- Speaking fees offer scalability without network dependence
- Books create passive income and legacy
- Younger age (41) means decades more earning potential
Financial Growth Timeline
Career Milestones and Financial Impact
Let’s trace Bakari Sellers’ financial journey through key moments in his career:
| Year | Career Milestone | Financial Impact | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Elected to SC House at age 22 | Modest legislative salary (~$10K/year) + law school | $0 – $50K |
| 2008 | Graduated law school, began legal practice | Entry-level attorney income (~$60K-$80K) | $50K – $100K |
| 2010 | Named TIME 40 Under 40 | Increased speaking fees, consulting opportunities | $200K – $300K |
| 2014 | Lieutenant Governor campaign | High visibility, media connections formed | $400K – $500K |
| 2015 | Joined CNN, married Ellen Rucker Sellers | CNN contract + combined household income | $800K – $1M |
| 2018 | Partnership at Strom Law Firm | Significantly increased legal income | $1.5M – $2M |
| 2020 | Published “My Vanishing Country” | Book advance + royalties + speaking boost | $3M – $3.5M |
| 2024 | Published “The Moment” | Second book advance + continued growth | $4.5M – $5M |
| 2025 | Forbes Best-in-State Lawyer | Premium legal fees, enhanced credibility | $5M – $5.5M |
| 2026 | Current status | All income streams mature and optimized | $5M – $6M |
This timeline shows steady, consistent growth rather than sudden windfalls—a pattern that suggests sustainable wealth building rather than temporary success.
Personal Life
Marriage to Dr. Ellen Rucker Sellers
In 2015, Bakari Sellers married Dr. Ellen Rucker Sellers, a chiropractor and entrepreneur. Ellen was previously married to NBA star Vince Carter, bringing her own professional accomplishments and life experiences to the relationship.
Dr. Ellen Rucker Sellers runs her own chiropractic practice and has built a successful career independent of her husband’s fame. The couple represents a true partnership of accomplished professionals who support each other’s ambitions.
Their relationship demonstrates Bakari Sellers’ commitment to building a strong family foundation—something that’s increasingly important as his career demands intensify. Ellen’s understanding of public life (from her previous marriage) helps her navigate the spotlight that comes with being married to a CNN political commentator.
Parenthood
In 2019, Bakari and Ellen welcomed twins—a daughter named Sadie Sellers and a son named Stokely Sellers. The naming of their son Stokely honors Stokely Carmichael, the legendary civil rights activist who was a contemporary of Bakari’s father, Cleveland Sellers.
The births came with dramatic circumstances—Ellen experienced serious complications that were covered in media, highlighting the maternal mortality crisis affecting Black women in America. Bakari has since become an advocate for maternal health reforms, using his platform to raise awareness about this critical issue.
Parenthood has added new dimensions to Bakari Sellers’ public commentary. He now speaks passionately about education funding, healthcare for children, and building a better future—topics that carry extra weight when you’re raising two young children.
The Sellers Family Legacy
The name “Sellers” carries weight in civil rights history, and Bakari takes this legacy seriously. His father, Cleveland Sellers, participated in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and was present at the Orangeburg Massacre, where he was shot and later wrongfully imprisoned.
Cleveland Sellers eventually received a full pardon and went on to become a professor and director of the African American Studies program at the University of South Carolina. His journey from activist to educator profoundly shaped Bakari’s worldview.
This family background isn’t just historical trivia—it fundamentally informs Bakari Sellers’ approach to law, politics, and advocacy. He sees his work as continuing the struggle his father’s generation fought, adapted for modern challenges.
Physical Presence
Commanding Stature
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) tall and weighing approximately 88 kg (194 lbs), Bakari Sellers has an undeniably commanding physical presence. His height gives him authority in television appearances and when addressing large audiences.
This physical stature complements his communication style—confident, measured, and authoritative without being aggressive. In an industry where appearance matters (unfortunately), his professional presentation helps him be taken seriously across different platforms.
Professional Style and Image
Bakari Sellers maintains a polished, professional appearance that reflects his dual roles as attorney and media personality:
- Business attire: Typically seen in well-tailored suits for TV appearances
- Classic style: Conservative, professional looks that appeal to broad audiences
- Grooming: Well-maintained, conveying attention to detail
- Demeanor: Calm, thoughtful, approachable yet authoritative
His style choices reflect strategic thinking about personal branding. He avoids flashy or controversial fashion that might distract from his message, instead presenting as the serious professional he is.
Social Media Influence and Digital Presence
Building an Online Following
Bakari Sellers maintains an active social media presence that amplifies his message and extends his influence beyond television:
| Platform | Handle | Followers (2026) | Content Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | @Bakari_Sellers | 800K+ | Political commentary, real-time reactions |
| @bakarisellers | 180K+ | Personal moments, family, career highlights | |
| Bakari Sellers | 300K+ | Long-form thoughts, articles, engagement | |
| Bakari Sellers | 50K+ | Professional network, career updates |
His Twitter presence is particularly influential, with tweets regularly reaching millions of impressions. During major political events, his commentary often trends nationally, demonstrating his ability to shape conversations.
Digital Strategy and Engagement
Bakari Sellers uses social media strategically:
- Authentic voice: Doesn’t rely on staff ghostwriters; his personality shines through
- Timely commentary: Responds quickly to breaking news and political developments
- Family balance: Shares glimpses of personal life without oversharing
- Engagement: Actually responds to followers, building genuine connections
- Cross-promotion: Uses platforms to promote books, appearances, causes
This digital presence has become an asset in itself, providing platforms for book launches, speaking promotions, and direct connection with supporters.
Controversies and Challenges
Political Criticism and Debates
As a prominent CNN political commentator and Democratic voice, Bakari Sellers regularly faces criticism from political opponents. His willingness to speak bluntly about race, voting rights, and social justice makes him a target for conservative critics.
Notable controversies include:
- Heated on-air exchanges with Republican commentators about voting rights
- Criticism for strong stances on Confederate symbols and monuments
- Pushback from both left and right on various political positions
- Debates about Democratic Party strategy and messaging
Rather than shy away from these moments, Sellers leans into them, using controversy as an opportunity to explain his positions more fully. This approach has earned him respect even from those who disagree with his politics.
Misconceptions About His Net Worth
Some online sources have published wildly inaccurate information about Bakari Sellers net worth. One particularly egregious example showed his net worth as just $9, which actually referred to a tiny stock holding rather than his total assets.
These misconceptions highlight why seeking credible, well-researched sources matters when evaluating public figures’ finances. The $5-6 million estimate is based on careful analysis of his known income sources, career trajectory, and industry standards—not speculation or outdated data.
Handling Public Scrutiny
Living in the public eye comes with constant scrutiny of everything from political positions to parenting choices to financial decisions. Bakari Sellers handles this by:
- Maintaining boundaries between public and private life
- Staying focused on his core mission and values
- Responding thoughtfully rather than reactively to criticism
- Using his platform to educate rather than simply defend
- Leaning on family and trusted advisors for perspective
This mature approach to controversy has allowed him to maintain credibility even through difficult moments.
Future Projections
Career Trajectory and Opportunities
At just 41 years old in 2026, Bakari Sellers has decades of productive career ahead of him. Several paths could significantly increase his net worth and influence:
Potential Career Moves:
- Return to elected office – Perhaps a Congressional run or statewide office in South Carolina
- Law firm partnership expansion – Building his own practice or joining a national firm
- Media growth – Hosting his own show or expanding to other networks/platforms
- Academic career – Becoming a professor at a major university law school
- Corporate boards – Joining boards of Fortune 500 companies
- Advocacy organization leadership – Leading a major civil rights or social justice group
Net Worth Projections for 2030
If current trends continue, Bakari Sellers net worth could reach $8-10 million by 2030 through:
- Continued legal practice growth with premium billing rates
- Expanded media presence and potential hosting opportunities
- Additional books building on his author brand
- Increased speaking fees as his stature grows
- Strategic investments appreciating over time
- Potential business ventures leveraging his brand
The trajectory suggests sustainable growth rather than explosive wealth accumulation—fitting for someone focused on impact over pure financial gain.
Legacy Building
Beyond net worth, Bakari Sellers seems focused on building a legacy of:
- Fighting for voting rights and civil rights
- Mentoring young Black professionals entering law and politics
- Elevating voices from rural and Southern communities
- Writing important books that shape political discourse
- Raising awareness about maternal health and other overlooked issues
- Continuing his father’s work in his own authentic way
This focus on legacy over luxury distinguishes him from many in media and politics.
Lessons from Bakari Sellers’ Financial Success
Key Strategies Worth Emulating
Bakari Sellers’ journey from small-town South Carolina to national prominence offers valuable lessons:
1. Diversify Income Streams
- Don’t rely on a single employer or revenue source
- Build complementary careers that reinforce each other
- Create passive income through books, investments, etc.
2. Leverage Your Unique Story
- Your background and experiences are valuable assets
- Authenticity resonates more than trying to fit a mold
- Use your platform to amplify important messages
3. Invest in Education
- Advanced degrees open doors and increase earning potential
- Learning never stops—stay current in your fields
- Education isn’t just formal schooling but continuous growth
4. Build Strategic Relationships
- Networks from college, law school, politics all proved valuable
- Maintain relationships even when not immediately useful
- Treat everyone with respect—you never know who will help later
5. Take Calculated Risks
- Running for Lieutenant Governor didn’t succeed but opened doors
- Writing books required vulnerability but built his brand
- Leaving elected office for private practice was a gamble that paid off
6. Stay True to Your Values
- Success means little if you compromise core beliefs
- Authenticity builds trust and credibility
- Fighting for justice can be financially rewarding too
Frequently Asked Questions About Bakari Sellers
What is Bakari Sellers net worth in 2026?
Bakari Sellers net worth in 2026 is estimated between $5 million and $6 million. This wealth comes from his combined work as an attorney at Strom Law Firm, his role as a CNN political commentator, book royalties from “My Vanishing Country” and “The Moment,” lucrative speaking engagements commanding $30,000-$50,000 per event, consulting work, and strategic investments.
How does Bakari Sellers make his money?
Bakari Sellers generates income through six primary sources: (1) his legal practice at Strom Law Firm where he handles civil rights and corporate cases, (2) his CNN analyst contract as a political commentator, (3) book royalties from his two bestselling books, (4) public speaking fees from keynotes at universities, corporations, and political events, (5) consulting work providing political insights to organizations, and (6) investment returns from real estate and stock holdings.
Is Bakari Sellers still working at CNN?
Yes, Bakari Sellers continues working as a CNN political analyst in 2026. He regularly appears on major CNN programs providing commentary on American politics, race relations, voting rights, and social justice issues. His CNN role remains one of his primary income sources and keeps him in the national spotlight.
Who is Bakari Sellers married to?
Bakari Sellers is married to Dr. Ellen Rucker Sellers, a chiropractor and entrepreneur. They married in 2015 and have twins together—a daughter named Sadie and a son named Stokely (born in 2019). Ellen was previously married to NBA player Vince Carter and brings her own professional accomplishments to their partnership.
What books has Bakari Sellers written?
Bakari Sellers has authored two books: “My Vanishing Country: A Memoir” (2020), which became a bestseller and explores his upbringing in rural South Carolina and his father’s civil rights activism, and “The Moment” (2024), which addresses current political and social issues. Both books have contributed significantly to his net worth through advances and ongoing royalties.
How tall is Bakari Sellers?
Bakari Sellers stands 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) tall, giving him a commanding physical presence in television appearances and speaking engagements. His height complements his authoritative communication style and professional demeanor.
What did Bakari Sellers do before CNN?
Before joining CNN, Bakari Sellers served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2006 to 2014, representing District 90. He was elected at just 22 years old, making him one of the youngest African-American legislators in U.S. history. After his 2014 Lieutenant Governor campaign, he transitioned to practicing law at Strom Law Firm while building his media career.
Where did Bakari Sellers go to college?
Bakari Sellers earned his Bachelor’s degree in African-American Studies from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia (graduated 2005). He then attended the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he received his Juris Doctor degree in 2008 while simultaneously serving in the state legislature.
Conclusion
Bakari Sellers net worth of $5-6 million is impressive, but it only tells part of his story. The real measure of his success lies in how he’s built this wealth—through principled advocacy, exceptional talent, strategic thinking, and never forgetting where he came from.
From Bamberg County, South Carolina, to the national stage, Bakari Sellers represents the best of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity and hard work. His journey as the youngest African-American legislator in South Carolina to becoming a respected attorney, CNN political commentator, and bestselling author demonstrates the power of diversification, authenticity, and commitment to values.
Unlike many who achieve wealth and influence, Bakari Sellers hasn’t forgotten the communities he came from or the struggles his father’s generation faced. He uses his platform at CNN, his legal expertise at Strom Law Firm, and his voice as an author to fight for voting rights, social justice, and equality—proving that financial success and moral integrity aren’t mutually exclusive.
As he continues to grow his career in 2026 and beyond, we can expect to see his net worth increase alongside his impact. Whether through landmark legal cases, powerful television commentary, future books, or potentially a return to elected office, Bakari Sellers shows no signs of slowing down.
For anyone seeking to understand how to build lasting wealth while staying true to your values, Bakari Sellers provides an excellent blueprint. His story proves that the path to success doesn’t require compromising your principles—in fact, staying authentic to who you are might be the most powerful career strategy of all.